Portofino is one of Italy’s most iconic seaside villages, famous for its colorful houses, luxurious yachts, and the charming Piazzetta. But what makes it truly special for boat lovers? It’s not just about the stunning views; it’s the chance to see secluded bays, swim in crystal waters, and experience the coast from a perspective you simply can’t get on land. We love how some tours, like the Private Boat Tour in the Portofino Marine Reserve, offer personalized experiences with swimming, snorkeling, and scenic stops, giving you a real taste of the natural beauty. Others, like Andrea Boat Charter Portofino, provide flexible half- or full-day adventures with the chance to explore nearby villages and hidden coves.
Whether you’re after a quick sunset cruise, a day-long private charter, or a guided group tour, Portofino is perfect for exploring by boat. The surrounding waters are filled with picturesque villages like Santa Margherita, Camogli, and San Fruttuoso, which come alive from the water. Some tours even include snorkeling equipment or allow for leisurely swims, making the experience both relaxing and active. With so many options, there’s a boat tour in Portofino for every taste and budget — and booking early ensures you don’t miss out on the best days, especially in summer.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of group excursions, private charters, and themed cruises. For those seeking a shared group experience, tours like Boat Tour to Portofino and San Fruttuoso and Portofino San Fruttuoso and Camogli One Day Boat Tour offer approachable prices and flexible itineraries. If you prefer a personalized day on the water, options like Private Boat Tour Portofino, Golfo Paradiso, and Tigullio or Private charter tour boat from Genoa give you the chance to customize your stops and pace. For a romantic or scenic evening, the Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif is a quieter, more relaxed choice. Each offers something unique, from snorkeling to celebrity-watching.
Now, let’s explore each of these fantastic options in detail.
1. Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch
At number 1 on our list, the Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch combines a scenic boat ride with a local culinary experience. For about $261.65 per person, you get a 3-hour adventure that includes round-trip ferry tickets from Santa Margherita Ligure, making it a seamless way to see the coast without worrying about logistics. You’ll start with a walk to the Church of Saint Giorgio for sweeping views of the village, then enjoy a focaccia tasting at a local bakery that’s a real treat for bread lovers. The highlight is the pesto making class, where you’ll learn how Ligurian basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil come together in a traditional recipe. Afterward, a Ligurian lunch overlooking the water provides a hearty, authentic taste of the region.
This tour stands out for its blend of sightseeing, culinary immersion, and free time. You can hike in the Portofino Natural Park or simply relax in the Piazzetta, soaking up the atmosphere. Reviewers praise Nicoletta’s knowledge and the well-planned itinerary, with many noting that ending the day with a meal reserved at the tour’s restaurant saves hassle. The inclusion of ferry tickets makes it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed introduction to Portofino without the hassle of arranging transportation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food and culture lovers seeking an efficient day wrapped in natural beauty, with plenty of personal touches.
2. Andrea Boat Charter Portofino
Number 2 brings us the Andrea Boat Charter, where a private boat becomes your personal ticket to exploring Portofino and its surroundings. For approximately $872.15 per group (up to 5 people), you get a flexible 3 to 7-hour tour that can include stops like Santa Margherita, Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, and Camogli. This tour is ideal if you want to customize your experience — swim in clear waters, snorkel among the marine life, or simply relax on deck while your skipper takes care of navigation.
A key advantage is the choice of stops, including the secluded Abbey of San Fruttuoso, where you can swim and snorkel, or the colorful fishing village of Camogli. The reviews highlight how Guglielmo, the captain, tailors each trip to the group’s wishes. Guests love the opportunity for swimming, the included snorkeling gear, and the relaxed pace. The tour’s price reflects its exclusivity and flexibility, making it better suited for small groups wanting a personalized adventure.
Bottom Line: A top pick for small groups or couples who want to design their perfect day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore at their own pace.
3. Private Boat Tour Portofino, Golfo Paradiso and Tigullio
Number 3 offers a luxurious 7-hour private cruise that covers the most stunning parts of the Ligurian coast, starting at $2,751.34 for up to 8 people. This tour is the pinnacle for travelers wanting a full-day, exclusive experience with tailored stops. You’ll explore Portofino’s famous bay, visit the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, and tour the fishing village of Camogli, all narrated by your attentive skipper.
This tour emphasizes comfort and personal service, with options to include local wines and dishes, turning the cruise into a floating feast. The reviews emphasize the smooth experience, with guests like Rocco, the captain, receiving high praise for professionalism and friendliness. The itinerary is flexible, and you’ll have plenty of time to swim, relax, or take photos of the rugged coastline.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking ultimate privacy, comfort, and customization — perfect for special occasions or those who want to splurge on an unforgettable day.
4. Boat Tour to Portofino and San Fruttuoso for Small Groups
This 4-hour tour is designed for small groups eager to see the highlights of Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and surrounding villages for about $118.58 per person. The tour kicks off from Santa Margherita Ligure, with a quick boat ride to Portofino, where you get an hour to explore the famous village, including the Piazzetta and the colorful houses.
Next, the boat heads to San Fruttuoso, a pristine bay with a historic abbey and a legendary underwater Christ statue for snorkeling. The trip offers a balance of sightseeing, leisure, and snorkeling equipment, making it a good choice for travelers wanting a compact but comprehensive experience. Reviewers mention how well-organized and friendly the guides are, with the added bonus of free time at each stop.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of the coast’s best sites in a manageable, half-day adventure.
5. Private charter tour boat from Genoa to Portofino
Number 5 is a full-day private tour starting from Genoa, priced at around $528.39 per person for up to 7. This is your best choice if you’re cruising into Genoa and want a personalized experience with the flexibility to explore the coast at your own pace. The itinerary includes the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, Portofino’s famed bay, and the charming village of Camogli, with options for swimming and snorkeling.
The reviews note how Rocco, the captain, makes the day enjoyable with his engaging commentary and ability to tailor stops. The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear and an inflatable towboard, making the trip both fun and active. This tour is perfect for those who want a full immersion into the Ligurian coast with a private guide.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers arriving in Genoa or those who prefer a fully customizable day on the water with plenty of water activities.
6. One Day Private Boat Tour in the Cinque Terre
This 7-hour private excursion at number 6 is for those eager to explore the famous Cinque Terre villages from the sea. For about $2,443.48 per group (up to 7), you’ll visit Monterosso, Vernazza, and other towns, with the chance for a seaside lunch and cliff diving if you’re feeling brave. The skipper, Andrea, has three generations of experience, ensuring a knowledgeable and smooth ride.
Guests praise the pre-arranged lunch and Andrea’s storytelling, which adds color to the journey. The boat’s comfort and the opportunity for swimming or exploring hidden coves make this a memorable way to see the colorful villages from an exclusive vantage point.
Bottom Line: A top option for adventure-seekers and those wanting a splash of thrill alongside scenic views of Liguria’s most famous towns.
7. Private Boat Tour in the Portofino Marine Reserve
Number 7 offers a shorter, intimate experience focusing on the marine park, priced at about $487.35 for groups up to 6. From Rapallo or Santa Margherita, you’ll cruise around Portofino’s protected waters, swim, snorkel, and explore the coastline. The boat features a large cabin and a bathroom, making it comfortable for longer outings.
The reviews highlight Rocco’s friendly and attentive service, with many mentioning how enjoyable the swim and snorkeling stops are. It’s a flexible, efficient way to enjoy the beauty of the marine reserve with a guide who’s ready to customize the trip.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a shorter, relaxed day with a focus on marine life and scenic coastlines.
8. Private daily tour and charter boat from Portofino
Number 8 is a personalized 7-hour tour at around $623.88 per person, with a skipper customizing your route. It’s perfect if you want to explore the natural wonders of Portofino and Paradiso Gulf at your own pace, with options to include snorkeling, swimming, and a stop for lunch or sightseeing.
Guests emphasize Rocco’s friendly, flexible approach and the ease of booking. The boat is equipped for active fun with snorkeling gear and inflatables, making it ideal for families or groups looking to combine sightseeing and water play.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers seeking maximum flexibility and a private guide to tailor the day’s activities.
$623.88 per person
9. Portofino San Fruttuoso and Camogli One Day Boat Tour
Number 9 is a 5-hour group tour for about $157.08 per person, focusing on the key highlights of Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli. The tour includes free time in Portofino and San Fruttuoso, where you can snorkel with the equipment provided and enjoy the vibrant underwater scenery.
It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a shorter, affordable experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and leisure. The reviews mention the smooth organization and the chance to see multiple villages from the water, which is often more memorable than on land.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a well-rounded day with plenty of swimming and scenic stops.
10. Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif in Portofino
Finally, number 10 offers a romantic 1.5-hour sunset cruise for about $86.82 per person. It’s perfect for couples or groups wanting a simple, beautiful experience — sip local wine and enjoy appetizers as the coast lights change with the setting sun.
This tour is more about ambiance than extensive sightseeing, but the reviews highlight how peaceful and memorable the experience is. The boat offers a relaxed setting to toast the day’s end while taking in Portofino’s stunning coastline.
Bottom Line: Best for a romantic evening or a low-key way to enjoy the coast’s last light.
$86.82 per person
How to Choose the Perfect Boat Tour in Portofino
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a luxury, private experience, the Private Boat in the Marine Reserve or Genoa to Portofino charter are excellent. For a more social, affordable option, the small group tour or group day tour fit well.
If your goal is culinary and culture, the Pesto and walking tour is hard to beat. And for romantic sunset moments, the Sunset Aperitif offers a memorable, relaxed finale.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot and preferred time. Also, consider the weather — summer offers the best swimming and sunset views, while spring and fall still deliver pleasant experiences with fewer crowds.
In Summary
Portofino’s waters are a playground for all types of boat lovers. From private charters that cater to your pace to group tours that introduce you to top sights, options abound. Two standout choices are the luxury private tours for those wanting exclusivity and the affordable group excursions for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or romance, booking your spot early will ensure you don’t miss out on the perfect boat adventure in Portofino.